Manitoba politicians eye provincial ban on Russian vodka

Tories, NDP say banning Russian vodka in province a ‘valid’ idea

On Wednesday, Manitoba politicians talked about banning Russian vodka in the province due to the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Last year, some bars in Vancouver and California banned the Russian products after anti-gay laws were enacted in the country. (Scott Eisen/The Associated Press)

Tory MLA Ron Schuler said his party stands with the NDP in condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine — and he also suggested the province ban Russian alcohol to make a statement.

Schuler floated the idea during question period Wednesday afternoon.

“Will the minister responsible for the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission commit today to removing all Russian produced products from the shelves of MLCC stores?” said Schuler. “Will he also suspend the sale of Russian produced products until the international crisis in Ukraine is resolved?”

Manitoba Minister Dave Chomiak said the suggestion is valid, and Manitoba is working with the federal government to determine how and when sanctions will apply to Russian products.